Hundreds brave rain to take stand against abuse

About 200 people braved atrocious weather on Monday to March for Moko in Dargaville. Photo / Big River FM

Foul weather didn't deter more than 200 people taking to the streets of Dargaville as part of the national March for Moko demonstrations.

Heavy rain blanketed the town on Monday and, while the atrocious conditions may have put some off, more than 200 people, including many children, took part in the march.

And the message was clear - Not One More Child should die from abuse.

Wendy Laird, from one of the rally organisers SOS Kaipara, said the turnout was amazing considering the conditions.

Ms Laird said it was a reflection of the depth of feeling people had over the Moko case.

Thousands of people took to the streets across New Zealand on Monday demanding justice for slain toddler Moko Rangitoheriri, including in Whangarei, Kaikohe, Kaitaia and Dargaville. As the crowds gathered, the two responsible for his death - Tania Shailer and David Haerewa - were each sentenced in Rotorua District Court to 17 years behind bars, with a minimum non-parole period of nine years.

Ms Laird said the theme of the rally was simple - "Not One More Child" should die from abuse. "I think one of the things to come [from the marches] was to let people know they can get help, whether they are being abused, are abusing somebody or they know somebody being abused, get help. There are many great organisations that can help."